The Lahore High Court ruled on Tuesday that incurable and dangerous stray dogs should be euthanised humanely.

The ruling came during the hearing of appeals from citizens who sought to halt the dog culling campaign in Rawalpindi.

Justice Jawad Hassan delivered the six-page decision, instructing that the process should adhere to the guidelines set by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council to minimise unnecessary suffering.

The court noted that the operation was initiated in response to public complaints about increasing stray dog attacks. But the petitioner’s lawyer pointed out that such attacks were a result of food scarcity.

On this, the court instructed the government and relevant parties to develop a balanced policy that protects both animal rights and public safety.

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While the petitioners requested an end to the culling, authorities argued that the campaign was “necessary” due to safety concerns for citizens. The court suggested that the government explore alternative methods to prevent dog bites.

The court recognised that such animals not only threaten individuals but also contribute to various health and social issues.

The veterinary officer in Rawalpindi highlighted that rising incidents of attacks by stray dogs pose significant risks to public safety.